Welcome to Amsterdam's Red Light District

Facts about the District

Since the Middle Ages, Amsterdam has been a hub of prostitution owing to its closeness to the harbour. According to news sources, the decision to legalise prostitution in October 2000 brought down the crime rate considerably. The Prostitution Information Center (PIC), established in 1994 by former sex worker, Mariska Majoor, provides some useful insight into the controversial topic.
Looking beyond its sleazy reputation, De Wallen is in fact one of the most attractive parts of the city, with its tree-lined canals, pretty streets and 14th century Gothic Oude Kerk church, which definitely deserves a visit. Look out for the Oudezijds Armsteeg too, with its row of six charming Delft Blue houses.

Visiting the District

Go once dusk falls when red-lit windows light up the waters of the Amstel River. Sex workers flirt with potential clients from behind windows, only drawing the curtains when 'engaged'. Photographing the sex workers is strictly prohibited, yet people find inventive ways of doing so. For an informative overview of the area, The Red Light District Walking Tour is a good option whilst the Red Light District Pub Crawl, or a racy live performance at the Moulin Rouge or Casa Rosso are good ways to bring the evening to a close.
The Red Light District is largely safe due to the presence of plain-clothes officers and private bodyguards hired by the sex workers. Still, it is advisable to look after your belongings. Since 2007, the city's authorities have resurfaced the streets, restored facades and spruced up the district to make visiting a more pleasant and safe experience for all. Thanks to Project 1012 (named after the area's postcode), a number of upmarket restaurants, design stores, art galleries and fashion studios have also popped up. To experience the newer, hipper face of the area, drop into the Cutthroat Barber and Coffee shop.

Planning your trip to Amsterdam? Check out our best city center hotels in Amsterdam.

Author: Lana de Wit

Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

My name is Lana de Wit, Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Together with the Guest Relations and Guest Services team we are making sure that all guests are having the best experience at our hotel and look after their special requests, celebrations and expectations. I get energy out of solving problems and striving for the best there is possible and I love the fact that every day is different and full of surprises. I always wanted to work at Krasnapolsky since I was a little girl, so being able to work here the past years has been a dream together with my fantastic colleagues. My biggest mission is to let every guest leave with extraordinary stories and unforgettable memories to take home. I look forward to welcoming you here in Amsterdam to give you the true Anantara experience!